2021-2024 Audi V6 TFSI Coolant Pump Leak TSB 2070349/4

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2070349/4 to address instances of coolant loss originating from the coolant pump in vehicles equipped with the V6 TFSI engine. This bulletin, dated August 30, 2024, supersedes previous bulletin 23-46 from December 12, 2023, and provides updated instructions for diagnosing and repairing this issue. Owners of affected 2021-2024 Audi models experiencing an Audi Q8 coolant pump leak or similar symptoms should be aware of this guidance.

Symptoms of a Coolant Pump Leak

Owners may observe several indicators pointing to a potential coolant pump issue. The most common complaints include:

• Coolant loss/leak: Visible signs of coolant leaking from the vehicle.
• Coolant warning lamp: Illumination of the coolant level warning light on the instrument cluster.
• Engine warning lamp on: The check engine light may illuminate, indicating a related engine issue.

Fault Codes / DTCs

In some cases, a specific diagnostic trouble code (DTC) may be stored in the vehicle's event memory:

Code	Description
P0299	Turbo/Super Charger Underboost

This P0299 code is often a secondary symptom, caused by contamination of the N649 switch valve with coolant from the leaking pump.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

When investigating a potential coolant leak, technicians will focus on precisely locating the source. The coolant pump is frequently identified as the origin of the leak. It's crucial to differentiate between an actual leak and normal operational characteristics. For example, traces of coolant (up to 3 ml) found on the drip cup over 100 hours of operation due to lubrication and cooling of the seal are considered normal and do not warrant a complaint. Similarly, dried deposits on a vacuum connection are not a definitive sign of a leak.

The diagnostic process involves a thorough visual inspection, checking for leaks at both idle and higher engine speeds (up to 2500 rpm), and performing cooling system checks according to the Workshop Manual.

Important Warnings for Owners

Owners should be aware of specific conditions that do not necessarily indicate a fault:

• Normal coolant escape: Up to 3 ml of coolant escaping over 100 hours of operation due to lubrication/cooling of the seal is normal and does not constitute a reason for a complaint.
• Dried deposits: Dried deposits on the vacuum connection are not a clear indication of a leak.
• Unnecessary replacements: If, after initial cleaning and observation, no further coolant leak is detected, components should not be replaced. Continued observation is the correct procedure in such cases.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair procedure outlined in TSB 2070349/4 focuses on accurate diagnosis and targeted replacement if a leak is confirmed. The steps include:

1. Locate the leak: Precisely identify the source of the coolant leak.
2. Clean and dry: Thoroughly clean and dry the area around the leak and any traces of coolant.
3. Fill cooling system: Ensure the cooling system is filled to the maximum level.
4. Visual check: Perform a visual inspection to assess for leaks at idle and engine speeds up to approximately 2500 rpm.
5. Cooling system check: Check the cooling system for leaks as per the Audi Workshop Manual.
6. Reassess:
   • If no further leak is detected, continue to observe the vehicle without replacing any parts.
   • If a coolant leak is detected again, replace the component(s) causing the leaks. Technicians are instructed to document the leaks with photos/video. If the coolant pump is found to be leaking, its production date must also be photographed (as shown in Figure 3 of the TSB).

Warranty Information

For vehicles still under warranty, claims should be submitted in accordance with the Audi Warranty policies and Procedures Manual. The TSB specifies the following details for warranty claims related to this Audi Q8 coolant pump leak:

• Claim Type: Informational only if the vehicle is outside of warranty.
• Service Number: 1950
• Damage Code: 0050
• Claim Comment: As per TSB 2070349/4

Specific labor operations and their associated time units (TU) or SRT references are provided for various tasks, including checking and topping up coolant (1938 3599, 30 TU), checking the cooling system for leaks (1901 0150), and removing/installing the coolant pump if faulty (1950 19XX).

All part and service references in this TSB are subject to change. Technicians are advised to consult the Parts Department and ETKA for the latest information.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11007223